Scripted

The Italian drama Viola come il mare will return for a third season, but fans should brace themselves for some major changes. Turkish star Can Yaman will not be reprising his role as inspector Demir. Instead, the male lead will be played by Argentine actor Rodrigo Guirao Díaz, well-known for his work in international productions.

Production, however, is currently on hold for a joyful reason: leading actress Francesca Chillemi is expecting her second child (after daughter Rania, born in 2016). This means fans — and her on-screen alter ego Viola — will have to wait a little longer before seeing her back in action. The news was reported by Italian magazine Sorrisi & Canzoni TV.

“I will definitely return to play Viola,” Chillemi assures, “but first I need to take some time off. My doctors have recommended complete rest during this pregnancy.”

For Chillemi, Viola is a special role. “She’s sensitive, and she knows suffering because of the degenerative illness she discovers she has. She ‘sees’ other people’s emotions, including Demir’s. It was a great, tumultuous love story,” she says. “I’ve cried so much filming this series!”. With the arrival of Rodrigo Guirao Díaz as the new male lead, season three promises a fresh chapter for the beloved character. The series has already been broadcast in over 20 countries and has even gained a following in India. “It’s funny to hear Viola dubbed in languages I don’t understand,” Chillemi smiles. “One day I’d love to work internationally — maybe Hollywood, or even Bollywood!”